SlashSlash

Simply put, the eponymous solo debut from former Guns N' Roses/Velvet Revolver guitarist Saul "Slash" Hudson isn't exactly what everyone's expecting. There are great aspects, such as a randy outing with Motörhead's Ian "Lemmy" Kilmister, some rockin' and rollin' with like-minded and equally capable artists such as Dave Grohl, Duff McKagan and Iggy Pop ― people who like to stretch creative wings outside of their day jobs ― but some head-scratching moments abound as well. Generally speaking, the album has a few pelvis spurring, air guitar-worthy guitar struts, but isn't as outright cocksure and sleazy as one would expect from the mind behind some of rock's most unforgettable riffs. Moreover, when Slash strives to incorporate people he admires, but isn't exactly in the same ballpark as (Black Eyed Peas' Fergie and Kid Rock come to mind), one feels a dire need for him to get back to the bare essentials. One could argue that Slash works on multiple levels: introducing new people to rock and vice versa. But for the most part, those who really get what Slash is about don't need any new lessons, especially these ones.
(Universal)